PhD in Microclimate Modeling and Optimization for Greenhouses and Vertical Farms using CFD Eindhoven University of Technology in Netherlands

PhD opportunity at Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e) in the Department of the Built Environment, within the Building Physics research group.

The project is titled “PhD in microclimate modeling and optimization for greenhouses and vertical farms using CFD” and is part of the GreenControl research program, a collaboration involving Dutch technology universities and industry partners focused on plant-centered climate control and sustainable controlled environment agriculture (CEA).

The research will focus on microclimate modeling, greenhouses, vertical farms, computational fluid dynamics (CFD), airflow modeling, heat and mass transfer, and climate control strategies for energy-efficient food production. The PhD candidate will develop parameterizations for vegetation impacts on the microclimate and apply CFD models to study air mixing and fluxes of CO2 and water vapor.

Supervision is by prof.dr.ir. Twan van Hooff and dr.ir. Thijs van Druenen. The position is in an interdisciplinary setting with links to ongoing projects in the research group and collaboration with industrial stakeholders.

Eligibility highlights: a master’s degree in building or applied physics, civil/mechanical engineering, or a related field; background and interest in airflow modeling; research-oriented mindset; teamwork and industry collaboration skills; motivation to teach and coach students; and fluent English at C1 level (IELTS 7.0 or TOEFL 90). Experience with CFD/measurements, controlled environment agriculture, and publications is an advantage.

Funding and conditions: full-time PhD employment for 4 years, salary scale P (€3,059–€3,881 per month), plus year-end bonus, vacation pay, pension, leave benefits, allowances, and training support. Teaching duties are included (minimum 10% of employment).

Application deadline: 2026-06-07. Apply only through the TU/e online system; email and postal applications are not accepted. Submit a cover letter, CV with publications, three references, and proof of English proficiency.